Our favorite tasting protein bars are also packed with whole food ingredients. Shushy has worked for a variety of private practices and organizations, gaining a wide range of experience in gastrointestinal health, pediatric nutrition, eating disorders and oncology.
She is also certified through Precision Nutrition. We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Protein bars can be a nutritious and convenient snack option between meals or as a post-workout boost to support muscle repair.
However, protein needs are highly individualized and dependent on many factors, including physical activity and overall health, with some athletes needing higher amounts of proteinfrom 1. Athletes may find them particularly helpful after a hard workout or long run when the appetite may be suppressed, and fuel is needed to jumpstart muscle recovery.
Depending on your dietary preferences and nutritional needs, there are many varieties of protein bars on the market. Some contain added protein concentrates like whey and pea protein isolate which typically have higher amounts of protein per serving, while others are made from natural protein sources like nuts, seeds, and even egg whites.
In general, we recommend primarily choosing bars made with simple, whole-food ingredients with limited added sugars and artificial sweeteners. When selecting our top list of protein bars, we considered protein content, ingredient list, overall nutrition content, and taste.
Our team of registered dietitians reviews and evaluates every single supplement we recommend according to our dietary supplement methodology. From Diverse frågor, a registered Diverse frågor on our Expert Review Board reviews each article for scientific accuracy.
Rise Almond Honey bars are at the top of our list with simple, whole-food ingredients and 20 grams of protein. Each bar contains only almonds, honey, and whey protein isolate, making this one of the shortest ingredient list bars on the market.
Rise bars have the perfect texture—soft with just enough chewiness. They have no aftertaste and can even satisfy a sweet tooth. If almonds and honey aren't your favorites, they also come in different flavors as well as plant-based bars.
Be mindful that these bars are higher in sugar, with 13 grams per bar, and also higher in fat compared to some other bars. Because of the higher fat content, this bar can help keep you fuller for longer. Plus, if you're an athlete looking for a quick pre- or post-workout snack, the Rise bar is an easy, nutritionally balanced option.
Protein bars can get expensive, but the Power Crunch bars are affordable and available almost everywhere. From drug stores to gas stations, these bars are fabulous for those moments when you need a snack and are stuck with limited options. They are similar in texture to a wafer, and according to Shushy Setrakian, MS, RD"While the Power Crunch bar contains sucralose, an artificial sweetener that may not be ideal for everyone, they are the best-tasting protein bars I've had so far, with a perfect, crunchy texture.
Try this bar if you want a sweet, satiating snack with 5 grams of added sugar. One French Vanilla Creme bar packs 14 grams of protein from a whey blend, calories, and 11 grams of carbohydrates.